Don’t ignore symptoms

Appendicitis occurs when the appendix becomes inflamed. The condition sometimes requires surgery to remove the organ before it bursts.

Appendicitis typically starts with pain in the abdomen around the belly button, says the Nemours Foundation. The pain often is accompanied by a mild fever, vomiting, nausea, constipation or diarrhoea. As the condition progresses, the pain may intensify and move from around the belly button to the lower right side of the abdomen.

Appendicitis should never be ignored, since there may be serious complications if there's an infection or if the organ bursts. If you suspect that your child may have appendicitis, contact his doctor immediately.

Getting a second opinion

If you've been diagnosed with a specific disease or health condition, you may be wondering if it's wise to consult another doctor for a second opinion. The Washington University School of Medicine offers these suggestions on when a second opinion is warranted:

• If your doctor has recommended surgery.

• If your doctor's diagnosis or recommendation doesn't sound credible to you, or if you're not comfortable with any treatment prescribed.

• If your doctor diagnoses you with a condition that's life-threatening.

• If your doctor recommends a particularly risky or invasive procedure, when a less complicated procedure is available.

• If you've been prescribed long-term medication or therapy.

• If your doctor can't make a diagnosis, or if the treatment prescribed isn't making you feel better.

Want to lose weight, don't miss breakfast

If you're in the habit of skipping breakfast, studies show you should rethink your morning routine. Eating breakfast has health benefits and can help manage your weight, according to Rutland Regional Medical Center in Vermont.

Here's what the research indicates:

• Breakfast is linked to a lower body mass, compared to people who skip the meal.
• Breakfast is shown to reduce a person's risk of obesity and insulin resistance.
• Breakfast is one of the few proven strategies to maintaining long-term weight loss.
• Breakfast is shown to improve grades and behaviour among schoolchildren.

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